This small, white, surprisingly three-storeyed building claims to be the oldest pub in Oxford (as do the Chequers and the Turf). It's mostly surrounded by chunks of Christ Church and anonymous financial services companies, which might account for the tipsy dons and men in suits. AN HISTORIC PUB SINCE 1242, apparently.

There is not much to say about it that hasn't been said before. The cut-off tie collection covers most of the surfaces of the pub, except for the floors, and it is dark, warm, and possibly tricky to get a seat. About averagely expensive depending on what you choose to drink. One guest ale. (8.ix.1999: Marston's Pedigree.)

The most eye-catching feature of the place is the bear mural behind the benches outside, which are plagued on Thursday nights by members of Dougsoc. (8.ix.1999)